Any Ranger Raptor owners coming from a Bronco?

[cc1999]

Traded my 2023 2Dr Bronco on the Ranger Raptor.

I didn't hate the Bronco, but it took so long to get built (32 months) that the Ranger Raptor had been announced that it was coming to N.A, so I modified my Bronco order and got on my local Dealers Ranger Raptor waiting list (was #1 but got bumped to #2).

It arrived last week and I just got back from taking it on a 3400 mile trip to visit Family.
It performed flawlessly and averaged 17 mpg doing 75mph to 85mph on the interstate without a bed-cover and on premium gas.

Speaking of fuel mileage, my 2dr badlands 2.7 gets pretty much exact same mileage as my Ranger Raptor. 15-17 depending on conditions.

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[telenerd]

Yea, I am admittedly a truck junkie.
There is also another three Diesel HDs trucks out in the stable as well. LOL

I’m with ya brother. I got the same. Bronco Sas 2 door and soon to be Ranger Raptor. Keeping both. Gotta feed the addiction and deny my problems.

 

[pappacrunch]

I have a 2023 Bronco Wildtrack with the Lux package and the Ranger Raptor. 1 year of driving the Bronco and 3 months of driving the RR. They are completely different and both extremely fun to have and drive. I ended up keeping the Bronco because it is fun. And am keeping the RR because it is fun.

The Bronco is like being in a teenagers first car. It is loud inside and sounds really mechanical. The RR is more like the business guy getting his first 3 series BMW. Quieter, a little more refined, sportier to drive (power and suspension) with better creature comforts (seats and steering wheel).

RR Pros

• The truck bed with a tonneau cover is really handy. But doesn't hold as much as a 4 door Bronco.
• Power train is more refined. Shifts better, more power, quiet for the power it puts out. Not a race car but solid acceleration (especially for a pickup).
• More refined ride quality.
• Quiet ride. The RR is as quiet as our X5. Tires are quiet and minimal wind noise.
• Seats are softer and more comfortable.
• Steering wheel is awesome in the RR.
• It is fun to play with exhaust modes.

Things I like better in the Bronco:

• Knobs and buttons for the climate stuff are better in the Bronco.
• The larger screen in the Bronco works better. It isn't as pretty but more functional. Touch screen in the RR is to small for my fingers.
• Wireless Car Play works better in the Bronco. The RR is not production ready.
• Backseat crew says there is more room in the back of the Bronco. I don't sit back there so I don't know.
• The front seating area is more spacious in the Bronco.
• Buttons on the steering wheel are bigger and seem better laid out.
• Site lines are better in the Bronco.
• Better turning radius, easier to park

Draws

• Gas mileage is the same. Both are thirsty.
• Styling. Both get looks and are conversation starters
• Offroad. Both are awesome.
• Stereo sound. Neither of them are that good.

For what it is worth here are my reference points in cars:

• 69 Datsun 2000
• 65 Chevy pickup
• 73 Chevelle
• 74 Olds Cutlass
• Honda prelude (don't judge me, it was my wifes car)
• Every mini van known to mankind
• 74 Chevy 3/4 ton 4x4 pickup (Bronco kinda rides like this)
• 80 Chevy 3/4 ton 4x4 pickup
• 84 Chevy Monte Carlo
• Ford Escort (4 speed manual, no ac, crank windows - austerity phase with kids when gas and airport parking mattered)
• 02 BMW 325 CI
• Chrysler 300
• 7 Series Beemers
• Jag XJL super charged V8 510 HP (FUN to drive)
• 14 Chevy SS (kinda like the RR but no truck bed and better acceleration)
• X5 Beemers
• 55 Ford F100 (my therapy truck)

 

[cc1999]

I have a 2023 Bronco Wildtrack with the Lux package and the Ranger Raptor. 1 year of driving the Bronco and 3 months of driving the RR. They are completely different and both extremely fun to have and drive. I ended up keeping the Bronco because it is fun. And am keeping the RR because it is fun.

The Bronco is like being in a teenagers first car. It is loud inside and sounds really mechanical. The RR is more like the business guy getting his first 3 series BMW. Quieter, a little more refined, sportier to drive (power and suspension) with better creature comforts (seats and steering wheel).

RR Pros

• The truck bed with a tonneau cover is really handy. But doesn't hold as much as a 4 door Bronco.
• Power train is more refined. Shifts better, more power, quiet for the power it puts out. Not a race car but solid acceleration (especially for a pickup).
• More refined ride quality.
• Quiet ride. The RR is as quiet as our X5. Tires are quiet and minimal wind noise.
• Seats are softer and more comfortable.
• Steering wheel is awesome in the RR.
• It is fun to play with exhaust modes.

Things I like better in the Bronco:

• Knobs and buttons for the climate stuff are better in the Bronco.
• The larger screen in the Bronco works better. It isn't as pretty but more functional. Touch screen in the RR is to small for my fingers.
• Wireless Car Play works better in the Bronco. The RR is not production ready.
• Backseat crew says there is more room in the back of the Bronco. I don't sit back there so I don't know.
• The front seating area is more spacious in the Bronco.
• Buttons on the steering wheel are bigger and seem better laid out.
• Site lines are better in the Bronco.
• Better turning radius, easier to park

Draws

• Gas mileage is the same. Both are thirsty.
• Styling. Both get looks and are conversation starters
• Offroad. Both are awesome.
• Stereo sound. Neither of them are that good.

For what it is worth here are my reference points in cars:

• 69 Datsun 2000
• 65 Chevy pickup
• 73 Chevelle
• 74 Olds Cutlass
• Honda prelude (don't judge me, it was my wifes car)
• Every mini van known to mankind
• 74 Chevy 3/4 ton 4x4 pickup (Bronco kinda rides like this)
• 80 Chevy 3/4 ton 4x4 pickup
• 84 Chevy Monte Carlo
• Ford Escort (4 speed manual, no ac, crank windows - austerity phase with kids when gas and airport parking mattered)
• 02 BMW 325 CI
• Chrysler 300
• 7 Series Beemers
• Jag XJL super charged V8 510 HP (FUN to drive)
• 14 Chevy SS (kinda like the RR but no truck bed and better acceleration)
• X5 Beemers
• 55 Ford F100 (my therapy truck)

Well said.
A lot of excellent points!
Very good analysis and comparisons.

I agree and totally relate to about everything you mentioned, with only exception being, I do think the factory stereo in the RR is significantly better than stereo in my Bronco.

My 2dr Badlands does have the lux pkg with the upgraded stereo. The Bronco stereo is just not good at all, where I think the RR stereo is actually pretty decent for factory. My Badlands does ride and handle a lot better now that I put the Wildtrack Hoss Fox 3.0 suspension, still not really on par with my RR suspension, but it’s a lot closer then the stock Badlands suspension. Still not really of fan of road tripping the Bronco, where I can drive the RR long distances in total comfort. Had my RR on a couple 5 hr road trips, very comfortable to travel in the RR.

 

[telenerd]

Well said.
A lot of excellent points!
Very good analysis and comparisons.

I agree and totally relate to about everything you mentioned, with only exception being, I do think the factory stereo in the RR is significantly better than stereo in my Bronco.

My 2dr Badlands does have the lux pkg with the upgraded stereo. The Bronco stereo is just not good at all, where I think the RR stereo is actually pretty decent for factory. My Badlands does ride and handle a lot better now that I put the Wildtrack Hoss Fox 3.0 suspension, still not really on par with my RR suspension, but it’s a lot closer then the stock Badlands suspension. Still not really of fan of road tripping the Bronco, where I can drive the RR long distances in total comfort. Had my RR on a couple 5 hr road trips, very comfortable to travel in the RR.

I really like my bilstiens on Bronco. They are super plush for slow rocky trails here in Wyoming and worked great in Moab. Anything that is higher speed they bottom out really quick and feel unstable. Once the shocks wear out or I get some extra cash I will probably get Acutune Ride Shocks!

 

[Beagletim]

Tough question and decision. If you're not into rock crawling or extremely difficult trail riding then the RR is the way to go for many reasons that have already been mentioned. If there is some serious offroading in your future than I would lean toward the Bronco. If you're after better performance from a Bronco then look at the Braptor. They are both very capable but in very different ways. Good luck

 

[SoutheastRangerRaptor]

Very helpful thoughts, seems everyone has similar consensus. Very interesting thread...

 

[AndyAndy]

I have a 2021 Bronco First Edition (4dr) and was planning on selling it when the Ranger Raptor arrived. But like another owner here said, the used Bronco market got very soft - very fast. Now I’ve got both at home and there is some noticeable differences. The Bronco wins a few categories but over all the Ranger Raptor is the winner for me.

Other than exhaust, the Ranger Raptor is much quieter inside than the Bronco. I will admit that I like the engine and exhaust sound combo on the Bronco better than RR. The Bronco you can here the engine (good thing) but you can also here road noise and small interior vibrations. The RR sounds more insulated than the Bronco.

In my opinion, the Bronco has a better stereo although they appear to be the same brand. I think it has to be the interior design and shape in combination with where the speakers are positioned relative to the driver.

The Ranger Raptor has equivalent (or maybe better) “tech” to the Bronco but the buttons on the bronco seem to be placed better and easier to index than the RR.

Performance is better in the RR but the Bronco is also really good for what it is. Although I haven’t compared them, it seems the Bronco launches just as quick as the RR, it can hit all the trails the same, etc. The most noticeable feature of the RR that I’ve experienced is its ability to land flat if you’re going over some whoops or small jump. The RR is very smooth in the 40-60 MPH over sand / dune.

The cellphone charger on the Bronco is not great as compared to the RR. The Bronco always gets filled with other things whereas the RR is in its own spot.

Body panel fit and finish is mediocre. Unfortunately both Bronco and RR are not great. I have accepted that Ford will never get this right on any grade of vehicle. I could go on and on about the issues but I’m sure you’re aware of common problems.

I haven’t towed anything with either but I’d say they both are not great. I see Bronco towing small RVs all the time and it seems to work but definitely not meant for a long trip.

Bronco tires throw rocks which will hit the paint but I think the tire and fender combo on RR is better. My prediction is the wide body on RR will get damaged on the front portion of the rear bed fenders. It seems the front tire can throw debris that will impact the bed near the rear wheels. My suggestion to anyone getting a RR is to get PPF on the front half and consider some other areas for additional protection.

 

[Velociraptor]

Full disclosure I don’t own a Bronco, but I’ve ridden and driven one multiple times. I will say the fire noticeable thing is road noise is way worse in the Bronco (soft top) I don’t know if the hardtop fixes that issue or not. The ride quality (Sasquatch package) is also worse on the Bronco. I absolutely love the suspension in the Ranger Raptor. Also the TTV6 Bronco has nothing on the TTV6 RR engine. There’s no comparison the RR engine eats the Bronco.

 

[nikhsub1]

I don't own a Bronco or a RR - what I do own is a Gen 2 raptor which I still love. Had it since new and it has 49k miles on it. It is pretty modded too. Problem is I will be moving to a condo in a year's time or so and the Gen 2 does not fit in the garage... too tall. I refuse to park it on the street so I will need to sell it and get something that fits. I'm almost positive the RR will fit, I have 6'6" of height to deal with, yeah it's pretty low. For context, I live in Los Angeles, Hollywood to be exact. I'm torn between the BR and the RR provided the BR would fit in the garage, I need to test that out - a friend has a BR that is willing to do a test fit If it is a no go, RR is in my future. If it does fit, the decision becomes much harder, especially with the prices of the BR dropping like a rock.

 

[Slyder]

I don't own a Bronco or a RR - what I do own is a Gen 2 raptor which I still love. Had it since new and it has 49k miles on it. It is pretty modded too. Problem is I will be moving to a condo in a year's time or so and the Gen 2 does not fit in the garage... too tall. I refuse to park it on the street so I will need to sell it and get something that fits. I'm almost positive the RR will fit, I have 6'6" of height to deal with, yeah it's pretty low. For context, I live in Los Angeles, Hollywood to be exact. I'm torn between the BR and the RR provided the BR would fit in the garage, I need to test that out - a friend has a BR that is willing to do a test fit If it is a no go, RR is in my future. If it does fit, the decision becomes much harder, especially with the prices of the BR dropping like a rock.

As a Condo owner myself, the Ranger Raptor does fit in height wise (80 inch tall opening), but the back end of the box (trailing end of the wheel-well to the bumper) sticks out the opening.

Luckily, the balcony of the unit above the garage provides protection from the elements and provides protection from direct sun for 90% of the day.

 

[BigMeatsBronco]

had 3 different broncos, keeping my half cab on 41s, and now got the ranger raptor too...

 

[RedNose1]

Thanks!
My Bronco has the 2.7L with the 10 speed Auto.

For me, I really don't mind rowing gears, but I do find it gets old rather quickly. Could be just me getting older too. LOL

I find the RR to be one of the more fun driving vehicles I have ever owned.
It has really tight steering, and an excellent well dialed in suspension under it, making it feel very sporty for a truck. To me because of those things I think the RR has a somewhat European sporty feel to it.

I have the same feeling for the RR compared to my other trucks, one of my trucks is also in the 700 hp category and I still love to daily drive my RR.

 

[Colt Bronco]

I have a 2023 Bronco Wildtrack with the Lux package and the Ranger Raptor. 1 year of driving the Bronco and 3 months of driving the RR. They are completely different and both extremely fun to have and drive. I ended up keeping the Bronco because it is fun. And am keeping the RR because it is fun.

The Bronco is like being in a teenagers first car. It is loud inside and sounds really mechanical. The RR is more like the business guy getting his first 3 series BMW. Quieter, a little more refined, sportier to drive (power and suspension) with better creature comforts (seats and steering wheel).

RR Pros

• The truck bed with a tonneau cover is really handy. But doesn't hold as much as a 4 door Bronco.
• Power train is more refined. Shifts better, more power, quiet for the power it puts out. Not a race car but solid acceleration (especially for a pickup).
• More refined ride quality.
• Quiet ride. The RR is as quiet as our X5. Tires are quiet and minimal wind noise.
• Seats are softer and more comfortable.
• Steering wheel is awesome in the RR.
• It is fun to play with exhaust modes.

Things I like better in the Bronco:

• Knobs and buttons for the climate stuff are better in the Bronco.
• The larger screen in the Bronco works better. It isn't as pretty but more functional. Touch screen in the RR is to small for my fingers.
• Wireless Car Play works better in the Bronco. The RR is not production ready.
• Backseat crew says there is more room in the back of the Bronco. I don't sit back there so I don't know.
• The front seating area is more spacious in the Bronco.
• Buttons on the steering wheel are bigger and seem better laid out.
• Site lines are better in the Bronco.
• Better turning radius, easier to park

Draws

• Gas mileage is the same. Both are thirsty.
• Styling. Both get looks and are conversation starters
• Offroad. Both are awesome.
• Stereo sound. Neither of them are that good.

For what it is worth here are my reference points in cars:

• 69 Datsun 2000
• 65 Chevy pickup
• 73 Chevelle
• 74 Olds Cutlass
• Honda prelude (don't judge me, it was my wifes car)
• Every mini van known to mankind
• 74 Chevy 3/4 ton 4x4 pickup (Bronco kinda rides like this)
• 80 Chevy 3/4 ton 4x4 pickup
• 84 Chevy Monte Carlo
• Ford Escort (4 speed manual, no ac, crank windows - austerity phase with kids when gas and airport parking mattered)
• 02 BMW 325 CI
• Chrysler 300
• 7 Series Beemers
• Jag XJL super charged V8 510 HP (FUN to drive)
• 14 Chevy SS (kinda like the RR but no truck bed and better acceleration)
• X5 Beemers
• 55 Ford F100 (my therapy truck)

This is great. Thank you for taking the time to write all this out.

I think if I had never owned a Bronco, I would probably get the Raptor, but I really enjoyed my Bronco before its life was cut short. Basically, I'm debating fun with the doors and roof off, or fun zipping around the corners. Would also be nice to have a truck bed again, but I don't trust my golden retriever back there.

My son tells me we should get the Raptor after we took it for a spin, but I think he was more enamored with the giant screen than the performance (ugh, this generation). Anyway, I got my check from insurance today so I guess I'll drag everyone out this weekend and make a decision.

 

[RedNose1]

View attachment 47653

This is great. Thank you for taking the time to write all this out.

I think if I had never owned a Bronco, I would probably get the Raptor, but I really enjoyed my Bronco before its life was cut short. Basically, I'm debating fun with the doors and roof off, or fun zipping around the corners. Would also be nice to have a truck bed again, but I don't trust my golden retriever back there.

My son tells me we should get the Raptor after we took it for a spin, but I think he was more enamored with the giant screen than the performance (ugh, this generation). Anyway, I got my check from insurance today so I guess I'll drag everyone out this weekend and make a decision.

Good luck either ways you go. Just remember the Golden Retriever is a Pitbull in Baja mode!

I just stopped using my Gen 3 37’s after getting the RR.

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